Yas Marina Circuit Cultivates Future Stars of Emirati Motorsport

Post by : Bianca Hayes

Yas Marina Circuit solidifies its position as a premier destination for motorsport and community activities, hosting over 180 events annually. These gatherings range from entry-level karting experiences to elite competitions like the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Mohammed Al Hashemi, Director of Motorsport Programmes and Community Engagement, highlights that the “Al Sabq” talent identification initiative has successfully pinpointed young Emirati racing prospects. This program, run by Yas Heat Academy, aims to cultivate motorsport talent from a young age.

The second installment of the initiative took place at Yas Kartzone in partnership with Mercedes-Benz. This year saw participation double, with 26 children aged five to seven involved. The program also featured emerging female talents, including Ameera Al Mheiri.

Throughout the year, the circuit is alive with events like the Yas Speed Festival and Yas Super Street Challenge, while also encouraging community wellness through weekly activities such as TrainYAS and exclusive women-only cycling and running sessions, which draw large crowds. These events are enhanced by advanced smart safety systems to promptly address any incidents.

Yas Marina Circuit provides a comprehensive development path for drivers—from karting to single-seater racing. This framework has already benefited talents such as Rashid Al Dhaheri, who has joined the ranks of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Junior Team.

Through these initiatives, the circuit strives to create a new wave of Emirati drivers who can rise to compete at the top tiers of global motorsport in the next 15 years.

April 25, 2026 12:05 p.m. 117

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